Dental Sealants in Tucson, AZ

How Dental Sealants Work

Sealants are typically applied during a regular cleaning visit or as part of a preventive care plan. The process is painless and non-invasive:

1. The tooth surface is cleaned thoroughly.
2. A safe etching solution is applied to help the sealant bond securely.
3. The sealant material is painted onto the tooth and hardened with a curing light.

Once hardened, the sealant acts as a barrier, protecting enamel from acids and plaque for several years.

Benefits of Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are highly recommended by dental professionals — and for good reason. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Cavity Prevention: Especially effective for children and teens who may struggle with brushing thoroughly.
• Quick and Non-Invasive: No drilling, numbing, or discomfort required.
• Cost-Effective: Helps avoid the need for future dental fillings, crowns, or more complex restorative procedures.
• Durable: Sealants can last several years with proper care and regular oral hygiene visits.
• Safe for All Ages: While commonly applied in pediatric dentistry, adults with cavity-prone molars can benefit as well.

Who Should Get Dental Sealants?

Sealants are most often applied shortly after permanent molars erupt — usually between ages 6 and 14. However, adults may also benefit, especially if they:

• Have deep pits or grooves in their molars
• Have a history of tooth decay
• Want to take extra steps toward preventive care

Our pediatric dentistry team routinely evaluates children’s teeth to determine the ideal timing for sealant placement. For adult patients, sealants may be recommended as part of a personalized cavity prevention strategy.

Why Aeris Family Dental Recommends Sealants

As a locally owned, dentist-led practice, Aeris Family Dental prioritizes preventive care over reactive treatments. Our goal is to help patients maintain healthy smiles without unnecessary procedures. Sealants are one of the most effective ways to achieve this — especially for younger patients or those with higher decay risk.

Our team of dentists — Dr. Lan Allen, Dr. Kevin Mortenson, and Dr. Scott Sonico — carefully assess whether sealants are the right fit for your needs, always providing honest recommendations and guidance. We use high-quality, BPA-free materials for every sealant we apply, ensuring your safety and peace of mind.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

With proper care, sealants can last up to 10 years. However, they should be checked regularly during routine exams to ensure they remain intact. If wear or chipping occurs, sealants can be easily reapplied.

To extend the life of your sealants:

• Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens
• Maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings
• Practice daily brushing and flossing habits

Are Sealants Covered by Insurance?

Many dental insurance plans cover sealants for children, and some plans extend coverage to adults. Our office staff is happy to verify your benefits and discuss cost-effective options if sealants are not fully covered.

For patients without insurance, we offer transparent pricing and can help you explore our in-house membership plans or payment options.

Serving Tucson Families with Preventive Dental Care

We proudly provide dental sealants and comprehensive family dentistry across Tucson and surrounding areas. Whether you're visiting from Rita Ranch, Continental Ranch, Downtown, or anywhere in Southern Arizona, our team is here to make prevention simple and accessible.

If you’re also exploring options like mouthguards for kids or teens or fluoride treatments, we can incorporate those into a complete prevention plan during your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Sealants

Are dental sealants only for children?
No. While they are most commonly applied to children's newly erupted molars, adults with deep grooves or a history of cavities can also benefit from sealants.

Do sealants replace the need for brushing and flossing?
Absolutely not. Sealants are a supplemental form of protection, but daily brushing, flossing, and regular professional cleanings are still essential for overall oral health.

Is the sealant material safe?
Yes. We use BPA-free dental sealants that are safe for patients of all ages and approved by the American Dental Association.

How long does it take to apply sealants?
The process is very quick — typically only a few minutes per tooth — and can often be done during the same visit as your cleaning or exam.

Can sealants fall off or wear down?
Sealants can wear over time, especially with heavy chewing habits, but they can be reapplied easily. We check them during your regular exams to ensure they stay effective.